26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 26104 has some form of health insurance. 45.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.43 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 26104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,514 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26104. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,613 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,017 health care providers accessible to residents in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Parkersburg, WV (ZIP Code 26104)

Parkersburg, West Virginia, nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery. Evaluating the readiness of its primary care infrastructure to address lung cancer necessitates a comprehensive analysis, factoring in physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the often-overlooked aspect of mental health support. This analysis, culminating in a “Lung Cancer Score,” will assess the strengths and weaknesses within ZIP code 26104, providing insights for patients and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and competent primary care. In Parkersburg, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), needs to be consulted to determine the precise ratio within 26104. A low ratio warrants concern and suggests potential bottlenecks in accessing timely care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and characteristics of primary care practices are vital. Does the area have a robust network of practices, or is care concentrated in a few facilities? The presence of both large, multi-specialty clinics and smaller, independent practices can offer patients diverse options. The size and scope of these practices will be assessed. Do they offer comprehensive services, including preventative screenings like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists crucial for lung cancer treatment? The presence of certified nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can help expand access to care, will be considered.

Technological adoption plays a significant role in modern healthcare. Telemedicine, in particular, has the potential to improve access, especially for patients in rural areas or with mobility challenges. The degree to which primary care practices in Parkersburg have embraced telemedicine will be examined. Are virtual consultations offered for routine follow-ups or initial assessments? Do practices utilize electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between providers? The ability to share medical images and test results electronically is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Lung cancer, as a life-altering diagnosis, brings with it significant emotional and psychological burdens. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referral networks is critical. Does the primary care infrastructure in Parkersburg offer on-site counseling services, or do practices have established partnerships with mental health professionals? The ability to address the psychological impact of the disease can greatly improve a patient’s quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. The presence of support groups and patient education programs will also be considered.

Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape requires an understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem. This involves examining the relationships between primary care practices, hospitals, and specialist providers. Are there strong collaborative networks in place? Are there established protocols for managing patients with suspected or confirmed lung cancer? The availability of specialized lung cancer care, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists, is a critical component of the overall Lung Cancer Score. Proximity to comprehensive cancer centers can also influence the score.

Identifying standout practices is a key element of this analysis. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, patient education, and comprehensive care will be highlighted. This includes practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs, offer convenient screening options, and provide robust support services. The use of patient satisfaction surveys and quality improvement initiatives will also be considered in identifying leading practices.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite metric, reflecting the various factors discussed above. It will incorporate the physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall healthcare ecosystem. This score will be a relative measure, allowing for comparison with other areas and providing a benchmark for improvement. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, making it easily understandable for patients and healthcare providers.

The final score will be presented with an accompanying narrative that highlights specific areas of strength and weakness within Parkersburg's primary care infrastructure. This narrative will offer concrete recommendations for improvement, such as increasing physician recruitment efforts, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and strengthening mental health support services. The goal is to provide actionable insights that can lead to better lung cancer care for residents of ZIP code 26104.

Ultimately, the success of lung cancer care hinges on a strong foundation of accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered primary care. This analysis seeks to illuminate the current state of affairs in Parkersburg, WV, providing a roadmap for improvement and ensuring that residents have access to the best possible care. The analysis will be a living document, subject to periodic updates as the healthcare landscape evolves.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Parkersburg, including the location of practices, hospitals, and specialists, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing the healthcare landscape and identifying areas of need.